Education in emergencies must be a priority to improve children’s prospects for the future
By Christos Stylianides, EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management
Education is crucial for the development and protection of children during emergencies. It is as vital as shelter, health, food or water. Without education, there’s a real risk that children do not learn to cope in a crisis and are more exposed to risks and dangers. Out of school, they are more vulnerable to be recruited by armed groups or criminal gangs. But most importantly, they are not able to contribute to the recovery of their countries.
For these reasons I believe investing in education should be a priority. As part of my mandate, I’m proud to say that we have committed to step up EU’s financing for education in emergencies from 1% to 4%; from €11 million in 2015, to €52 in 2016. this promise is now already a reality.
This means that the EU has quadrupled its support for education in emergencies to enable children to continue learning during and in the immediate aftermath of crises.
And this is possible thanks to the outstanding work of EU’s humanitarian partner organisations on the ground. Together, we improve access to quality education and psychosocial support for pre-school, primary and secondary children; distribute school materials and uniforms; arrange transport to educational centres for those who need it; and rehabilitate and build schools and learning spaces.
The good news is that by the end of 2016, EU humanitarian aid will have enabled access to education for over 3 800 000 children living in emergencies in 46 countries around the world.
However, our efforts need to continue as 37 million children caught up in emergencies do not have access to education.
The international community needs to give education in emergencies the importance it deserves. It can be lifesaving. Besides providing learning opportunities, schools are places where girls and boys in emergencies can have access to clean water, food and medicines. These are also safe spaces for children to play and interact with their peers.
During my recent field visits to Ukraine, Turkey or Lebanon I saw the determination of children to go back to school. But also the challenges they face: girls and boys who cannot attend a course because the classroom is overcrowded or who cannot follow a lesson because they have no books.
Education is a fundamental right of every child. Children who today suffer from the effects of emergencies need education to grow and thrive. To become doctors, engineers or teachers. To create a brighter future in their countries when stability returns.
The EU stands firmly on their side and is leading the way to ensure that they receive quality education and psycho-social support in safe places. But the challenge goes beyond the capacity of one organisation, or by humanitarian community alone.
The international community has a joint responsibility. Development agencies need to work closely with humanitarians and intervene at an earlier stage. The future of these children and their countries depends on it. We must invest in education for a better future.
Photography by EU.
